Imran Khan sons visit Pakistan amid concerns over prison conditions
PTI founder Imran Khan’s sons, Kasim and Suleiman Khan, have revealed plans to visit Pakistan in January, citing serious concerns about their father’s detention conditions. In an interview with Sky News, the brothers described Imran Khan’s cell as a “death cell” and expressed fears over his health and safety.
The interview comes amid heightened tensions outside Adiala Jail, where a sit-in by Imran Khan’s sisters demanding a visit was dispersed using water cannons. PTI claimed that the water contained chemical additives, raising further concern about the treatment of the former prime minister.
Kasim and Suleiman stated that they have already applied for visas and are awaiting approval, emphasizing their commitment to seeing their father despite previous warnings to avoid visiting Pakistan. Kasim told the anchor, Yalda Hakim, “We have applied for our visas. It hasn’t come through yet, but we’re expecting it to come through, so we are planning a trip in January.”
The brothers expressed frustration over restricted court-ordered prison visits, highlighting that a United Nations special rapporteur described Imran’s detention conditions as inhuman and degrading. They called for independent monitoring and insisted on respect for basic human rights, including access to their father’s personal physician.
Addressing the political dimension, Kasim stated that his father is devoted to his mission to eliminate corruption in Pakistan and would never consider abandoning his struggle for personal safety abroad. He added that if anything happens to their father, both he and Suleiman intend to enter politics in Pakistan to continue his legacy.
Suleiman provided additional details on Imran’s detention, describing the cell as having minimal lighting, frequent power outages, and substandard conditions in violation of international norms. The interview also revealed that Imran has avoided discussing his hardships with his sons, focusing instead on their well-being and family matters, including the recent death of their grandmother, Lady Annabel Goldsmith.
In contrast, government spokesperson Mosharraf Zaidi, speaking to foreign media, rejected claims of solitary confinement, stating that Imran Khan has been in detention for approximately 860 days and has held over 870 meetings and interviews, including with lawyers and family members. He asserted that visitation restrictions are based on security considerations and confirmed that Imran’s physician has access.
The interview highlighted a deep divergence between Imran Khan’s family and the Pakistani government over his detention, treatment, and political future. Kasim and Suleiman’s planned visit in January is expected to draw international attention to the situation, reigniting debates on human rights and political accountability in Pakistan.
